Ivery Jean Qualls

Dr. Ivery Jean Qualls was born on Friday, December 15, 1950, to Heressie Singleton and Ivery L. Qualls in Minden, Louisiana. Ivery, affectionately referred to as "Berry" or "Jean" by her family and childhood friends, was a kind, peaceful, warm-hearted spirit who left a lasting impression on everyone she came into contact with.

She enjoyed football, baseball, and marble shooting. She would continue to appreciate sports well into adulthood, especially the Kansas City Chiefs and the Kansas City Royals. Ivery made her decision to follow Christ as her Lord and Savior while still living in Louisiana. She frequented New Light Baptist Church with her mother and siblings and was an active member of the choir there. She will spend the rest of her life pursuing this passion for God, the choir, and ministry.

Ivery was one of the first black women to enroll at Minden High School in the fall of 1966, aiding in the school's integration. She took part in numerous civil rights marches, protests, and events during her youth in her community. She attended Minden High School for a year before returning to Webster High School, where she received her diploma in 1968. Ivery was referred to by classmates as their "SHEro" and a "friend's friend." In Webster Paris, Louisiana, Ivery had a job at the Louisiana Army Ammunition Plant. She also attended Louisiana Technical College, where she obtained a short-hand certification.

In 1972, Ivery and her daughter LaTonnya relocated to Kansas City, Missouri. In 1978, Ivery gave birth to twins, Juanomasksi and Lashonda. Donnell, a special son, was later welcomed into the family. She was so full of love that she took on the roles of foster parent and daycare provider for several children over the years. She always made sure her loved ones had enough and welcomed everyone into her heart and home.

Ivery joined Miracle Temple Christian Center Church under the leadership of Dr. Melvina Ruffin where she was a dedicated church member for nearly 50 years. Ivery served as President of the Inspirational Choir for nearly 25 years; and founded the church’s youth choir, King’s Kids. She functioned as a church mother, head of the Evangelism Department, minister, church announcer, Sunday School teacher, and powerful intercessor. After each sermon, Ivery would conclude her message with a “Ha-Ha Moment,” something to lighten the atmosphere and give the congregation a laugh.

For 33 years, Ivery worked as an office secretary for the Kansas City Public School District at Woodland School and Satchel Paige Elementary School. Ivery placed a high value on education and made the decision to expand her education into her elder years. She graduated with an associate's degree in Biblical Studies in 2002. She graduated with a bachelor's in Christian Education in 2003. She obtained a Master's in Christian Education in 2007. She graduated from Faith Bible College with a doctorate in Christian Education in 2011. She also spent many years teaching at Faith Bible College. With the completion of a second doctorate in Christian Counseling from Kingsway Christian College and Theological Seminary of Missouri, Ivery finished her schooling in 2017.

Ivery enjoyed spending time with her family, preparing her biblical teachings, dominoes, endless trips to Wal-Mart, and "Madea" plays throughout her life. She was also gifted at coming up with unique names for family members.

On Tuesday, July 5, 2022, Dr. Ivery Jean Qualls transitioned from labor to reward. Many people adored her, and we will all continue to benefit from the important lessons she taught us. Both parents, Heressie Singleton and Ivery L. Qualls; aunt, Jessie D. Nelson, and brother, John Willie Hunt proceeded her in death.

She leaves to cherish her memory; children, LaTonnya Qualls-Martin (Kenny) of Kansas City, MO Juanomanski Qualls (Nona) of Moreno Valley, CA, Lashonda Qualls of Kansas City, MO and Donnell Johnson of Kansas City, MO; nine grandchildren, Takara Martin, Kaligio Qualls-Collins, Mayea Singleton, Mon’tra Qualls-Woods, Mon’te Qualls-Woods, Karington Martin, Sahyja Qualls, Khyrin Qualls, and Niveah Qualls; two great-grandchildren, Kyrie Parker and Kali Singleton; two sisters, Fannie Gaskins (Phil) of Newburgh, NY and Annie-Faye Thomas (Edward) of Princeton, Louisiana; two brothers, Larry Singleton of Fort Worth, TX and Ivery Joe Qualls (Marie) of Minden, Louisiana; goddaughter, Shirlester Cubit of Lancaster, TX; godson, Anthony Johnson of Kansas City, MO and a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends.